Casablanca is the most famous and largest city in Morocco, attracting over 3 million visitors in 2018 alone. With bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque, it’s easy to see why tourists flock here. However, with recent years seeing an uptick in petty crime, is Casablanca safe for travelers?
In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about safety in Casablanca, including risks of theft, terrorism, scams, and more. We’ll also provide tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip to this fascinating Moroccan metropolis.
An Overview of Safety in Casablanca, Morocco
Overall, Casablanca is a safe tourist destination. However, air pollution and traffic flow pose a threat to well-being. Violent crime is rare, and the greatest risks are non-violent crimes like pickpocketing, scams, and petty theft.
Still, it’s a large city with plenty of poverty, so remaining vigilant and using common sense goes a long way.
The main safety concerns in Casablanca include:
- Pickpocketing and theft, especially in crowded tourist areas
- Taxi and transport scams targeting travelers
- Risk of terrorism, although unlikely
- Sexual harassment of women walking alone
- Aggressive driving and road safety issues
While these issues deserve caution, violent crime in Casablanca is limited. With proper precautions, you can safely experience all this vibrant city has to offer.
Is Casablanca Safe? Dangers and Warnings for Tourists
While relatively safe, Casablanca does pose some risks for the unprepared traveler. Let’s discuss some of the most common dangers and issues to be aware of in detail:
Pickpocketing and Petty Theft
One of the most frequent crimes in Casablanca is petty theft, ranging from pickpocketing to bag snatching and thefts from hotel rooms. Crowded areas like markets and train stations are prime spots for pickpockets to strike.
When exploring busy areas, be extra cautious by keeping valuables secure, not flashing expensive items, staying alert in crowds, and carrying bags securely in front of you.
Theft also often occurs at cafes or restaurants by stealing unattended bags and phones. Never leave belongings unattended, even briefly.
While less common, some travelers also report thefts from hotel rooms. Use room safes and don’t leave valuables and cash, passport, and credit cards lying around.
Scams Targeting Tourists
While most locals are friendly, tourists should be aware of some common scams such as fake “guides” demanding payment, rigged taxi meters overcharging riders, “friendship” bracelet scams, and counterfeit goods passed off as designer originals.
Use skepticism before trusting any strangers that approach you, especially near tourist attraction sites. Don’t accept any unsolicited “help”, gifts, or excursions.
Always hire a car and driver from a trusted service provider like Great Deser Tours for convenience.
Terrorism and Security
The risk of terrorism does exist, although Morocco has avoided major terrorist attacks in recent years with its successful counterterrorism evolution. Be aware of your surroundings in public areas, avoid political gatherings, and steer clear of government sites.
While unlikely to directly impact tourists, it doesn’t hurt to know the location of the nearest police station, keep up with government travel advisories, and report any suspicious activity.
Sexual Harassment
Female travelers may encounter issues like catcalling or mild sexual harassment, especially when walking alone at night. To minimize risks, stick to well-lit busy streets at night, dress modestly, travel in groups when possible, and be firm in rejecting unwanted attention.
Traffic and Transport Safety
Great caution is needed when walking in Casablanca due to aggressive drivers, scarce crosswalks, and darting petit taxis. Cross carefully at crosswalks, watch for turning vehicles, use overpasses when available, and avoid jaywalking.
Always wear a seatbelt and request licensed tour drivers for longer day trips. Confirm taxis are licensed and metered. Remember, public transportation in Casablanca is generally safe.
Tips for Staying Safe in Casablanca
While petty crime requires caution, violent crime in Casablanca is limited. Using basic street smarts and vigilance allows you to safely experience its allure.
Tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Casablanca include:
- Keep valuables secured and out of sight at all times
- Be alert in crowds and use secure bags, money belts, and pockets
- Use skepticism with any strangers approaching you
- Avoid deserted areas and wandering alone at night
- Dress modestly and respect local cultural norms
- Arrange airport transfers or licensed taxis
Also:
- Stay up to date with travel advisories and news reports
- Keep away from any political demonstrations
- Know emergency numbers and locations of police stations
- Purchase travel insurance covering medical evacuation
- Drink bottled water and take other basic health precautions
With proper precautions, you’ll be prepared to enjoy Casablanca’s treasures without any hassles. This fascinating metropolis remains an alluring destination for travelers interested in Moroccan culture, history, and cuisine!
Things to Avoid in Casablanca – Staying Safe as a Tourist
While very much a modern metropolis, Casablanca also retains fascinating historic and cultural sites. Visitors can safely experience its treasures by being aware of some important things to avoid:
- Be Respectful of Islamic Customs
- Don’t Flaunt Expensive Gear
- Use Caution When Traveling Alone at Night
- Don’t Use Your Left Hand for Eating or Passing Items
- Avoid Skimpy Beachwear Away from the Beach
- Don’t Engage with Local Kids or Teens
- Avoid Dark Empty Streets and Alleys
While taking precautions, embrace Casablanca’s incredible energy. This fascinating crossroads of history, cuisine, and culture comes alive at night!
1. Be Respectful of Islamic Customs
As an Islamic nation, it’s important to respect local customs and traditions in Morocco. Men and women should dress modestly when exploring Casablanca, covering shoulders, knees, and cleavage.
Avoid overt public displays of affection. Do not publicly drink alcohol or appear intoxicated.
When visiting famous mosques like the Hassan II Mosque, non-Muslims should avoid entering during prayers. Be discreet when taking photos and don’t speak loudly or act disruptively. While questions show interest, avoid heated debate around religion.
By demonstrating respect, tourists gain a better appreciation for local cultural norms. Casablanca is more liberal than some areas, but it’s prudent for visitors to respect Islamic values.
2. Don’t Flaunt Expensive Gear
Petty theft, unfortunately, exists in Casablanca, especially pickpocketing by swift thieves in crowded areas. Limiting the visibility of expensive items helps lower your risk.
Avoid flashing expensive cameras, jewelry, watches, or sunglasses. Keep the wallet in the front pocket and valuables in a hotel safe. Only carry the cash needed for the day. Thieves target distracted tourists who openly flaunt valuables.
3. Use Caution When Traveling Alone at Night
Both men and women should avoid wandering poorly lit backstreets or deserted areas at night alone. While not frequent, muggings can occur. Individual women face extra risk of harassment or assault at night. Moreover, women should avoid provoking attention from idling men.
Stick to well-lit major streets at night, and travel in groups when possible. Use licensed taxis after dark rather than walking. Don’t accept rides from strangers. Avoid nightclubs or bars with no women present.
Exercise nighttime caution as in any large city. The well-lit Corniche area and tourist quarters remain lively at night. But straying elsewhere alone raises risks.
4. Don’t Use Your Left Hand for Eating or Passing Items
In Morocco, the left hand is considered unclean and is used for bodily hygiene. Be sure to use only your right hand for eating, passing money, shaking hands, and other interactions.
While most Moroccans understand cultural mistakes, using your left hand may cause offense. Eat traditional dishes like couscous and Bastilla with the proper hand to avoid uncomfortable social situations.
5. Avoid Skimpy Beachwear Away from the Beach
Moroccan cultural norms lean conservative, especially regarding women’s attire. Reserve bathing suits, shorts, tank tops, and skimpy dresses for pool and beach areas only.
When exploring the city, both men and women should cover their shoulders, backs, stomachs, and knees. More revealing clothing can draw unwanted attention. Dress modestly out of respect for local values.
6. Don’t Engage with Local Kids or Teens
Moroccan youths, especially boys, may approach tourists out of curiosity or to practice English phrases. Be friendly but cautious. Avoid initiating contact or encouraging kids to linger, as this causes worry for parents.
A brief friendly exchange is fine, especially for teens looking to practice English. But don’t prolong interactions, offer gifts, reveal too much personal information, or allow kids to lead you anywhere.
7. Avoid Dark Empty Streets and Alleys
While violent crime is rare, muggings can happen in deserted areas at night. Avoid poorly lit streets, alleys, and isolated beaches or parks after dark. Going there alone raises risks.
Also, be cautious about very aggressive street or beach vendors in more remote areas. If you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to return to busier tourist zones.
When in doubt, stick to well-populated streets and quarters frequented by tourists and locals. There is safety in numbers.
Conclusion: Enjoy Casablanca Safely
Casablanca gets an undeserved reputation by some for being dangerous. In reality, violent crime is rare and it’s safer than many large cities globally.
Petty theft is undoubtedly an issue travelers should take seriously through vigilance and caution. But overall, Casablanca offers far more rewards than risks for visitors.
Don’t miss out on the magic of Casablanca. With proper precautions and awareness, it promises to be a highlight of your Moroccan getaway. So head to the Old Medina, relax at a seaside cafe, and marvel at the majestic Hassan II Mosque.
This bustling city overflows with energy, intrigue, and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered!
Related Tours from Casablanca
If you’re looking to explore more of Morocco beyond Casablanca, consider these highly-rated tours starting from this convenient hub city:
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